Israel Commissions New 'Dragon' Submarine, Sends Message to Iran

Israel's sixth and newest submarine, the INS "Dragon," has officially joined the Israeli Navy in Haifa on September 24th. The vessel's commissioning ceremony was attended by top military and political officials, including IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and President Isaac Herzog. The IDF described the "Dragon's" integration as a significant step in bolstering the military's capabilities.

Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized the submarine's arrival as a "clear message to all who intend to threaten Israel," specifically targeting the Iranian regime. He stated that Israel would continue to enhance its defensive capacities, ensuring that no adversary is safe from Israeli reach, whether by air, land, or sea. Katz also asserted that Israel has already inflicted substantial damage on Iran's strategic assets and will prevent future threats to its existence.

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir highlighted the "Dragon's" advanced features, including enhanced stealth, extended range, and deeper operational capabilities, calling it a "miracle" while praising the crew. He noted that the navy is closely monitoring Iran and its allies, describing the Iranian regime as weakened but still intent on its objectives. Zamir also referenced past Israeli operations against Iranian officials and targets aimed at preventing invasions.

President Isaac Herzog assured the submarine's crew of the nation's trust, encouraging them to fulfill their missions effectively, both near and far, and to return safely. He mentioned the submarine's capacity to operate thousands of kilometers from Israeli borders.

The INS "Dragon's" arrival was delayed by several months due to Norway and Denmark denying it access to their territorial waters during sea trials, even though it sailed under a German flag. This submarine is the sixth in the Dolphin class, equipped with an air-independent propulsion system. Israeli Navy officials consider its classified capabilities "revolutionary," and upon full operational status in approximately two months, it will become the most advanced combat platform in the IDF. Concerns have been raised by the Israeli Navy that defense restrictions imposed by Canada, France, Denmark, and Norway could also impede the future delivery of three "Dakar"-class submarines currently under construction in Germany. These older "Dolphin" submarines, delivered between 1999 and 2001, will remain in service until the "Dakar" class begins arriving in 2033.